This seminar explores the economics and financing of colleges and universities,
with a particular focus on contemporary policy issues. A structured sequence of
readings and case studies serve as the backbone of the course. Course materials
will apply economic theory to selected policy issues, including tuition and
financial aid, the individual and societal returns of higher education, and
academic labor markets. The course will also introduce students to the financial
structure and management of colleges, including funding sources, budget
processes, and policies and issues regarding the finance of higher education.
Evaluation will be based on several written case studies, a student research
project, a final exam, and class discussion/participation.
Prerequisites: Economics 251, Economics 253 or 255 (or Statistics 101-formerly
Mathematics 143). Enrollment limit: 15.-While significant background in Economic
Theory and Econometrics is preferred, non-Economics majors are encouraged to
contact the instructor to discuss their interest in the course. Such students
should be willing to devote the extra time necessary to master the technical
vocabulary and economic concepts included in some of the readings.